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How long does blue cheese last?

Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines

Refrigerator
4 weeks
4 weeks unopened
After opening
2 weeks
Up to 2 weeks after opening

The short answer

Blue Cheese lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.

Why these numbers vary

Pungent veined cheese. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.

How to tell if blue cheese is bad

  • Pink, fuzzy white, or black mold (different from blue veins)
  • Ammonia overload

Storage tips

  • Blue/green veins = normal; other colors = toss
  • Wrap in foil to avoid sharing odor
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Frequently asked questions

How long does blue cheese last in the refrigerator?
Blue Cheese lasts 4 weeks in the refrigerator. 4 weeks unopened
How long does blue cheese last in the after opening?
Blue Cheese lasts 2 weeks in the after opening. Up to 2 weeks after opening
How can you tell if blue cheese is bad?
Watch for: Pink, fuzzy white, or black mold (different from blue veins); Ammonia overload.